It’s one of Chicago’s most iconic, most visited, most historic structures. It’s been the scene of intense joy and, more often, intense heartbreak. It’s a landmark, and there’s only one other place like it left in the nation – make that the world.

Here in the 2012 baseball season, Wrigley Field is the subject of controversy regarding the type of new development that will take place to keep the doors open and the crowds coming back. And, frankly, to keep the place structurally intact and to keep revenue flowing.

First, full disclosure: I’m a life-long Cubs fan, having attended games at the old ball yard from the mid-1960s to the present. But rather than share thoughts on the future of the Cubs as a team, let’s focus on what may happen to the property at 1060 W. Addison St.

And, to use a baseball metaphor, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel has thrown one high and inside by proposing to relax some of Wrigley’s landmark status. If enacted, the Cubs could add more modern features like large electronic scoreboards in the outfield bleachers and shut down surrounding thoroughfares on game days to create a so-called “carnival atmosphere” around the park. That already takes place in many regards. For years, the old brownstone and greystone apartment buildings along Waveland and Sheffield avenues across from the park have housed businesses where patrons can take in a game from the rooftops and enjoy food and drink on game days.

We’ve all seen major sports facilities renovated before in Chicago, so what do you think should go into the next lineup: Rebuild and renovate the ballpark and neighborhood, or consider what many believe is the unthinkable and shut the park down? Let us know how you’d manage this late-inning situation.